Last summer, I was reminded of why I get so much personal and professional satisfaction from being part of UC Cooperative Extension.

I was having a discussion with a group of 4-H youth, preparing them for summer camp as staff members. I was talking about their important role to serve as mentors and provide a memorable camp experience to more than 100 youth. It was at that moment when I realized that our program must have been important and meaningful to them because they have volunteered for a week to give that same experience to a new group of kids. For them, 4-H meant something, and they wanted to share it with others. That was a powerful realization.

Like the volunteers, I wanted to share what I experienced as a youth growing up in local youth programs in Compton. Nearly every day after school, I was fortunate to play, learn and grow in an after-school environment that nurtured my interests and skills in a safe place. The program staff were committed to providing this experience to all their youth participants. Field trips and overnight camping trips to Catalina Island as well as year-round sports activities helped to keep me safe and away from unhealthy, risky activities.

I also realized how important non-parental adults can be to young people. They help broaden the context of life and guide youth through experiences and opportunities that lead to a thriving adulthood.

So, I understand why these 4-H youth gave up part of their summer to be volunteer mentors. I, too, felt that need to share my positive youth experience with others. It is a wonderful thing to want to share.